Korankei is the most celebrated autumn foliage spot in central Japan, a river gorge near Toyota city where some 4,000 maple trees — descendants of those planted by a temple priest in the 1630s — blaze crimson and gold across the slopes of Mount Iimori each November. The scarlet Taigetsukyo bridge and the reflections doubling every colour in the slow Tomoe River provide the signature views, and throughout the month-long Korankei Momiji Festival the entire gorge is illuminated nightly until 21:00, when the tunnels of glowing maples take on an almost theatrical beauty.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Asuke, Toyota, Aichi |
| Hours | Always open; November illuminations to ~21:00 |
| Admission | Free (parking fees in season) |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours |
| Best time | Mid–late November for peak colour |
What to See
- 4,000 maples blazing across the gorge in November.
- The scarlet Taigetsukyo bridge and river reflections.
- Nightly illuminations during the Momiji Festival.
- The preserved Edo-period lanes of Asuke old town beside the gorge.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the old streets of Asuke and food stalls during the festival.
- Pair with Nagoya Castle on the same trip.
- Read our Aichi overview .
Getting There
- By bus: Meitetsu bus from Toyotashi Station or Higashi-Okazaki, about 45–70 minutes.
- By car: expect severe November congestion; arrive before 9:00 or after dark.
Tips
In peak season Korankei’s traffic jams are legendary — arrive before 9am or come by bus, and consider staying for the illumination, as the crowds thin and the lit gorge is the highlight. The adjoining old town of Asuke, a preserved post town, is worth an hour, and the festival’s food stalls make dinner easy before the evening lights.
